Planning a weekend home improvement or remodeling project? It’s a perfect opportunity to use salvaged and surplus building materials. Green building warehouses and architectural salvage yards are popping up across the country and are full of interesting, new and used items. These building elements have been donated by local businesses and residents, as well as manufacturers with closeouts and overstocks. Many of these shops are run by non-profit organizations who offer their goods at significantly reduced prices compared to retailers.

Not only will you find all sorts of modern goods, but architectural gems full of character, which can add a unique flair to your home and garden. You’ll also be doing the environment a favor by keeping useful items out of the waste stream.

A few of the organizations listed below even offer free pick-up of items you’d like to donate. Some of them offer dismantling services for your old home, barn or building. Others offer home improvement classes and workshops.